Reserve Mines, a community nestled in Nova Scotia's Cape Breton Regional Municipality, is a place of historical significance and cultural richness. With a population of 2,402 as of 2009, this community is located immediately west of Glace Bay and 10 kilometres northeast of Sydney.
The community's strategic location is one of its many charms. The J.A. Douglas McCurdy Sydney Airport, a major transportation hub, is situated in the western part of Reserve Mines. This makes the community easily accessible for tourists and locals alike.
Reserve Mines has a rich history, particularly in the mid-1930s when it was aided by the Antigonish Movement. This was when Father Jimmy Tompkins, Moses Coady, and Mary E. Arnold stepped in to assist the small town with education, housing, and the establishment of the first credit union. This period marked a significant turning point in the community's development.
The community is also known for its coal mining history, which spanned from 1860 to the mid-1950s. The mines, known as Dominion 5 and Dominion 10 Colliery, played a crucial role in the town's economy. Later, these mines were repurposed as an airshaft and escape passage from Number 26 Colliery in Glace Bay, further cementing Reserve Mines' place in the region's mining history.
Reserve Mines is not just about mining; it's also a place of sporting achievement. The community is known as the home of Lambert Todd, a harness racing grand circuit winner. Todd set a lifetime mark of 2.02.1 in the early 1920s, bringing fame to Reserve Mines in the world of harness racing.
In conclusion, Reserve Mines, Nova Scotia, is a community that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and sporting legacy. Whether you're a history buff, a sports enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, Reserve Mines has something to offer you.
